Share this with

Ryan Sessegnon of Fulham celebrates scoring against Burton in a 6-0 win (Getty)

Ryan Sessegnon proved yet again what an incredible talent he is over the weekend.

The 17-year-old was on target twice in a 6-0 win for Fulham – his eighth and ninth Championship goals this season – in what was a highly impressive display.

While his performances are helping Fulham push for promotion – they are now one point outside the play-offs – they are also attracting the interest of numerous major clubs. Manchester United and Tottenham are chief among those understood to be keen on the left-sided player, with Paris St Germain and Real Madrid also linked.

Hopes that a deal could be brokered this month were raised on Monday when Fulham announced the signing of Matt Targett. The Southampton player has joined on loan until the end of the season and occupies the left-back position that Sessegnon has filled for much of the season.

But suggestions Fulham are preparing for Sessegnon’s departure are wide of the mark. Instead, the Cottagers are actually trying to get the most out of their teenage sensation.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Sessegnon has played at both left-back and on the left of a front three this season – starting 20 times in defence and eight in attack.

But despite playing more often in defence, he’s better suited to playing in attack. His pace, technique and eye for goal far outweigh his defensive capabilities where his attention and still-developing strength have at times been exposed this season.

Fulham vice-chairman Tony Khan on Sessegnon

‘As it’s been the subject of a great deal of speculation, I’d like to announce that Ryan Sessegnon is staying with Fulham football club and will not be departing during this January transfer window.

‘Ryan is a very important part of the Fulham family, and we’re grateful that he’ll be with us as we fight to achieve promotion this season.’

Fulham manager Slavisa Jokanovic has more often than not used Sessegnon at left-back out of necessity.

Scott Malone, who played at left-back for Fulham last season, was sold to Huddersfield in the summer. Rafa Soares was signed on loan from Porto to fill the gap but having arrived injured has played just 53 minutes of football. Jokanovic has no other natural options at his disposal, with Denis Odoi used at the weekend despite preferring to operate on the right.

It’s seen Sessegnon often forced to play on the left of a back-four and get forward when he can.

So rather than signalling Sessegnon’s exit, the arrival of Targett should instead see the wonderkid flourish in the second half of the season. And if he does, expect the interest and rumours surrounding Sessegnon’s future to grow even louder.